This Fall, many people are turning over a new leaf well ahead of January. The “Great Lock-In” trend, which has gone viral on social media, is about using autumn’s slowdown to tighten routines, build healthy habits and reset before the holidays begin. But did you know, this concept is not new?
For thousands of years Chinese medicine has focused on seasonal living, where specific lifestyle practices are carried out to align our bodies with the seasonal rhythms. When we are aligned with the seasonal cycles we honor the energetic gestures of each season and create balance. For example, in the winter we have less sunlight hours and the temperatures are colder. All of nature rests and restores. The trees have lost their leaves and most of their energy goes underground into the root systems to prepare for spring when new growth occurs. If we model this in our own lives it may look like more rest, and less activity, so that we may prepare our bodies for the coming Spring when nature begins to grow and produce. This Autumn, observe nature and attune yourself to your surroundings. What is going on and what is not going on in the forest? Chinese medicine understands that we are not separate from nature, we are simply part of it, and our health intimately ties to the seasons and cycles. Read on below for 5 tips to keep you healthy this Autumn and beyond.
5 Health Tips From Chinese Medicine For Vitality This Autumn (And The Rest Of The Year)
1. Take a 15-20 min. morning walk
Taking a brisk walk in the crisp fall air is a realistic goal that improves your circulation, metabolism, and lung health. This will also expose you to the morning sun, setting your circadian rhythm in balance with the natural light cycles, and improving hormonal health. This is also a great way to reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels through gentle movement and natural light exposure.
2. Go To Bed Early
As the season brings us closer to winter, we are experiencing less daylight hours. In nature many animals prepare for hibernation during this time. With less light exposure, we naturally have a healthy decrease in energy. Honor this natural decrease in energy with more sleep. Practice going to bed by 10pm for a restorative sleep.
3. Nourish Your Body With Seasonal Foods
Eating what is available in your area at this time of year is a great way to focus on eating whole, REAL foods! Typical foods availble this time of year are squashes, root vegetables, leafy greens, whole grains, and pasture raised animals.
4. Meditate To Calm The Mind & Body
Nature begins to slowdown this time of year. A great way to bring some slow living into your life is through meditation and mindfulness. Check out our guided meditation recordings here.
5. Take Seasonal Herbs and Supplements
Chinese medicine recommends warming and restoring herbal tonics during this time of year. Spices such as ginger and cinnamon are great additions to foods. Medicinal mushrooms are also fantastic for supporting immunity during this cold season. As always, before using any herbal supplements, consult with a qualified herbal practitioner, such as our very own Mimi Tagher, LAc or Dr. Tommy Hughes, LAc.
Contact us (859-525-5000) for more information -or- request an appointment!